How To Save Money On Cot Beds

How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you're expecting a baby, it's important to choose a cot that's secure and safe for your child. Look for a cot that has fixed sides, rather than drop-sides. This will comply with UK safety standards.

This simple but stylish coffin is our top choice from the Anyday range of John Lewis. It comes with three mattress positions, teething bars and storage drawers. It's also easy to assemble with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot beds keep baby's warm and comfortable. Find a comfortable soft and comfortable fabric. Make sure that the mattress is fitted snugly to eliminate any gaps that could cause the danger of the mattress becoming suffocated. There are many mattresses on the market that include coil springs, foam and other natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers - so do your research before deciding on the right one for your baby's requirements.

Whether you opt for an ordinary or convertible cot, the key to comfort is a good-quality mattress that is supportive and promotes a healthy posture. The same is true for the slats, which must be secured and not bent or sagging. The slats should also be secured to the frame, so your child doesn't get caught in them when moving in their sleep.

If you're not sure which mattress to purchase, talk to friends and family or check online reviews for recommendations. Look for ones that are air-conditioned, as they'll help regulate temperature and are less likely to harbour bacteria.

When it comes to fashion there's a broad selection from classic sleigh styles with elaborate detailing to sleek, modern designs. Some are painted in vibrant primary colors to make your child feel cheerful and happy when they awake.

The majority of cots have a drawer for storage underneath teething rails to prevent your child from chewing on the sides of the cot, and height bases that are adjustable to accommodate your child's growth. You can also purchase an extra drop-side for babies that are small or suffer from health issues that make it hard to bend over.

To ensure your peace of mind, search for a cot that complies with the stringent UK safety standards and can easily convert into an infant bed when the time is right. This information is available in the product description as well as the key specifications.

Safety

When selecting a cot, an environment that is safe for sleeping should be a priority. Make sure the mattress fits snugly, with no gap between it and the cot's beds edges or sides (big gaps can restrict your child's head or arms). Verify that the mattress is not too firm and thin. Mattresses that are too thick could increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer a variety of mattresses, from simple foam to natural substances for allergy sufferers. Some contain anti-microbial treatments. If your mattress has drop sides, make sure that it is in the up position and locked securely.

A drop side should be allowed to go down when an adult is present - this prevents accidental release. If your cot has a solid end be sure to avoid placing it against the wall as this will restrict airflow and may contribute to coffin death. According to the latest research, cots with slatted edges are safer since they allow for greater airflow.

If your cot is set on one side, then you can choose it. It will be the safest option for your child when they begin to crawl and then pull themselves upwards. If your child is confidently climbing and standing, it's the time to move to a junior bed.

Some cots come with an option that allows the base to be raised to three levels. This is a fantastic security feature that allows your child's cot to grow with them. Some cots have adjustable footplates that are ideal for toddlers who love to stand up.

When placing your child's cot, make sure there aren't any visible dangers. It should be put away from any heaters or power points. Also make sure it is away from windows, curtains and blind cords. They all could present a strangulation threat. If you are buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms, make sure to look out for potential hazards to your child's safety such as labels and transfers. They can come off and create a risk.

If you're unsure about how to use your sale cot in a safe manner you can ask other parents or visit the local NCT New Baby course for assistance and guidance. If your crib comes with a manual ensure that you go through it prior to using it and follow all the directions.

Style

This gorgeous cot bed, with its sleigh style will look amazing in your nursery. Our panel members loved the combination of natural and white pine, and its innovative features, like under-bed storage drawers that can hold all the baby necessities like nappies, bedding and an enviable assortment of baby clothes. It's also easy to assemble, with concise instructions and separate packs of screws for each section. It could also be transformed into a toddler's desk and bed as your child gets older (see product description for more details).

The teething rails are among our most loved features. They stop your child from hitting their head on the crib's side or any protruding part of the crib, such as the corner post or handle. They also prevent children from chewing on the wood, and prevent them from being suffocated. It also features an opening that can be removed to allow you to get access to your baby. We are thrilled that it can be converted to a toddler bed, and it is sturdy enough to last for four years. It also complies with strict UK safety standards. These are listed in the key specs below each product.

Cot beds are generally bigger than cribs and can be converted into toddler beds once your child is ready which means you don't have to worry about purchasing a bed until they're ready for the transition. They can be more expensive than a crib.

If your nursery is small, a crib might be the best choice for you, as it's smaller and occupies less space. However, if your baby is likely to spend much of their time in their parents' room or you're looking for a more durable bed, opt for a cot.

If a cot doesn't meet the UK safety standards outlined by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which cover the thickness of mattresses, the materials used, and other essential elements in baby cot mattresses) it is not safe for babies to sleep. The slats shouldn't be too far apart to stop your baby from falling out.

Stores

The amount of baby stuff you'll need is a mess regardless of whether you're a new mom or a seasoned one. This is why it's crucial to think about the storage options when you choose the right cot bed. A number of cots have additional storage options, like drawers under the bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some can be transformed into a toddler bed or a single bed, which can extend their usability for longer.

Some cot beds can be further converted into a daybed as shown on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who prefer an unstructured design since the conversion process is simple and involves the removal of a side panel. This lets parents save money on the purchase of a separate bed.

Some cot beds have a hanging rail that can be used to hang muslins, Dummies, as well as other small items. This makes everything tidy, neat and organized. It also looks great. Being able to access these items makes it easier for parents when feeding their baby.

A teething rail is another desired feature that is found in some cots and tots. This can help to stop your child from chewing on the wood which could cause irritation. Some cots are designed with a more traditional style and include a large under-bed storage drawer that is perfect to store blankets, toys clothes, and other baby essentials.

While this is a great option if you're short on space, you must keep in mind that you'll require a separate additional drawer. You may also need to buy a new mattress and bedding, as oval mattresses and sheets aren't typically included in the cot.

This sleigh cot bed from Stokke is a lovely example of Scandi-style at its best and comes with a massive under-bed storage drawer that's great to keep baby's essentials out of view but easily reachable. The alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions made it simple to put together for our panel. It's suitable for infants as young as birth, and can be made into a toddler's bed when your child is ready.